The Department of Agricultural Marketing and Cooperatives (DAMC) has formally handed over a newly established greenhouse solar dryer at Gasabama in Kawang Gewog, Thimphu Dzongkhag, marking another step toward strengthening Bhutan’s post-harvest agricultural infrastructure.
The facility, funded under the Government of India–Project Tied Assistance (GoI-PTA) initiative, was transferred to Bio Bhutan Private Limited during a ceremony attended by senior officials from Bhutan and India. Among those present were representatives from the Embassy of India in Thimphu, officials from the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources (MoENR), DAMC leadership, and experts from the National Post Harvest Center.
According to officials, the greenhouse solar dryer was developed through collaboration between DAMC and the Department of Energy under MoENR, with technical assistance provided by the National Post Harvest Center. The project is expected to support farmers and agri-based enterprises by improving the preservation and processing of agricultural produce.
The solar drying facility has been designed to help reduce post-harvest losses while improving the quality and shelf life of products. It is expected to encourage market-oriented farming and support both domestic and export opportunities through improved drying technologies.
Officials said the dryer will mainly be used for processing fruits, vegetables, herbs, spices, medicinal plants, and other high-value crops. Beyond commercial use, the facility is also expected to function as a demonstration and training center where farmers, entrepreneurs, and technical personnel can learn modern drying techniques and explore product innovation.
The installation at Gasabama is one of six greenhouse solar dryers established by DAMC during the 2025–26 fiscal year. Similar facilities have also been set up in Chukha, Paro, Samtse, and Samdrup Jongkhar as part of broader efforts to modernize agricultural value chains and enhance food processing capabilities across the country.
Officials noted that such initiatives are aligned with Bhutan’s goal of promoting sustainable agriculture, minimizing waste, and creating better income opportunities for farming communities through value-added products.
